The trap of superficial [positive thinking]

The Promise of Positive Thinking

Self-help culture often promotes a simplistic version of "positive thinking," suggesting that by simply repeating happy affirmations or ignoring the negative, we can attract happiness and success.

Phrases like "everyone is good" or "everything will be okay" are presented as a panacea.

The Problem with "Wishful Thinking"

This approach, often called wishful thinking, is fundamentally flawed and can be harmful.

It's not an effective mindset because it's often in direct conflict with our experience of reality.

If we're feeling bad and simply telling ourselves "I'm happy, I'm happy," our internal system detects an incongruence.

This dissonance can lead to even more frustration and a sense that we're failing at even "being positive."

The Absence of Rationale

Superficial positive thinking lacks a logical foundation and evidence.

They are empty statements that don't stand up to critical scrutiny.

When pressed, we often can't offer solid reasons for these beliefs, making them a very fragile foundation for our well-being.

The Alternative

Realistic Optimism and Acceptance: A much healthier and more sustainable alternative is not positive thinking, but realistic optimism, which we have already discussed.

This approach does not deny difficulties, but maintain